New York Rangers: 5 bold predictions for Eastern Conference Finals

– Steven Stamkos stays hot

Nov 26, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning center Steven Stamkos (91) against the New York Rangers during the first period at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

So far in the playoffs, the Rangers have faced some elite talent. In the first two rounds they have faced off against some of the NHL’s best in Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin. In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Rangers will have one more elite player to stop.

Steven Stamkos of the Lightning may not have gotten off to the start he would have wanted in the playoffs, but he is red hot coming into the finals. It would take until the ninth game of the playoffs, but Stamkos has scored three goals in the last five games for the Lightning.

Rangers’ Captain Ryan McDonagh has been a big reason for the Rangers’ defensive success against stars. In the Eastern Conference Finals, look for McDonagh to once again be tasked with leading the defense against Stamkos. So far McDonagh and company have done very well stopping great players, and that will have to continue.

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